Your guide to Samos
Samos highlights
Ancient history
With a history stretching back more than three millenia, even short breaks to Samos can pack in surprises. Uncover Greek legends at the Temple of Hera, whose lone column stands in tribute to Zeus’ wife (and sister). Or walk in the footsteps of the polymath Pythagoras (who called Samos home in the 6th century BC) as you discover UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites like the Pythagoreion.
Gorgeous beaches
The island is home to some of the Eastern Aegean’s best sand and pebble beaches. Start your getaway on the sheltered shores of Lemonakia where you’ll find perfect swimming conditions and a collection of oceanfront tavernas. Don’t leave without visiting Tsamadou Beach, but be warned: one end of this beach is clothing optional.
Local wines
Samian wine was highly prized across the ancient world. Today, its wine-making traditions remain strong, bolstered by the local muscat grape which grows on the slopes of Mount Ampelos. Sample a glass or two with lunch or dinner and, if you have time, try to include a wine tour in your stay in Samos.
Samos: Know before you go
| Language | Greek |
|---|---|
| Currency | Euro (€) |
| Time zone | UTC+2 (EET) and UTC+3 (EEST) |
| High season | July - August |
| Low season | November - March |
Find the best time to go to Samos
Weather in Samos
March – May: Spring weather is pleasant but cool, so bring a light jacket with you.It might be a bit brisk for swimming, but this is a great time to tour the island’s many ancient ruins.
June – August: Hot days, clear skies and plenty of sunshine — it’s no wonder summer is the most popular time to visit Samos. Afternoon winds cool things down.
September – November: Autumn is unpredictable. September and October stay warm and sunny, though the chance of rain increases as the season goes on.
December – February: Winters are mild but rainy. Be aware that some businesses close in the off-season, especially in more touristy areas. But you can still enjoy hiking the mountain trails.
Events in Samos
Apokries (February or March): The Greek Carnival season is celebrated with masquerades, music, dancing and feasts. Look out for unique traditions in Samian villages, like the satirical ‘Kadis’, who pass judgment on the problems of modern Greek life.
Wine festivals (July or August): Samos celebrates its thriving wine scene in summer. This popular festival brings tastings, music and dance to villages and towns across the island.
Ireon Music Festival (August): The normally quiet village of Ireon goes wild to the sounds of ska, punk and rock ’n’ roll for three days every summer. Join hundreds of revellers on the beach for a lineup of local and international acts.
The best neighbourhoods in Samos
Vathi
Wondering where to stay in Samos? The island’s small capital is hardly a buzzing metropolis, but that’s exactly why we love Vathi. The harbour is a flurry of fishing boats and catamarans, and whitewashed houses line the sloping hillsides. Take a stroll along Vathi’s long seafront, find a seat in a traditional taverna and plot day trips across the island from your sunny Samos base.
Good for: Harbour, tavernas, day trips
Pythagorion
Pythagorion is located on the southern shores of Samos, offering sweeping views of mainland Turkey, which sits just across the short Mycale Strait. Named for Pythagoras, the famed philosopher and math wiz, this is the best area to stay in Samos if you want to soak up the island’s ancient history. Venture down into the Tunnel of Eupalinos and dig into the past at the Archeological Museum of Pythagoreion.
Good for: Ancient history, sea views, museum
Kokkari
If you’re on the hunt for sun, sea and sand, check out Kokkari. This laid-back seafront village is famous for its terracotta-roofed villas overlooking a working harbour, where busy tavernas do a roaring trade in beer, wine and fresh seafood. Long Beach is lined with hotels and apartments, and you’re only a short walk from popular Lemonakia.
Good for: Villas, beaches, seafood
Things to do in Samos
Family-friendly things to do
A day at Psili Ammos Beach, where the turquoise waters are calm and sheltered, is one of the best things to do with family in Samos. The Monastery of Panagia Spiliani is a peaceful day trip for young and old. And the fascinating ruins of the Heraion of Samos is a fun introduction to Greek mythology and history for the kids.
Shopping
The towns of Vathi and Pythagorion are where you’ll find the best shopping in Samos. Souvenir shops are spaced among the seafront tavernas in Vathi. In Pythagorion, pedestrian alleys branching off the main street are lined with boutiques. Stock up on the famous Samian wine straight from the source by visiting local wineries.
Take in the culture
There’s no shortage of museums in Samos, including the Archeological Museum of Samos in Vathi. Contact the Samos Wine Museum in advance to book a tour and enjoy a tasting. Delve into the deep blue of the Aegean Sea where you can scuba dive to shipwrecks. For something a little different, uncover the legendary history behind the Cave of Pythagoras.
Nightlife
The best nightlife in Samos happens along the seafront strip in Kokkari, where bartenders are busy serving ouzo and metaxa from sunset to sunrise. For a romantic night out in Samos, hit the traditional tavernas in Vathi, or head south to Pythagorion for cocktails and art bars.
Places to eat
Seafood fills the menus at the best restaurants in Samos. Pick a local taverna when you’re in Pythagorion and you’ll have a feast of octopus, calamari, prawns and grilled fish to feast on. The island’s cuisine is also heavily influenced by Turkish cooking. Dig into traditional dishes like ‘dolmadakia’ (stuffed vine leaves), ‘soutzoukakia’ (meatballs) and goat stew.
Beaches
Two of the best beaches in Samos are Tsamadou and Lemonakia, glorious bays a short drive from Kokkari. Potami Beach’s waters are crystal clear, and Votsalakia Beach is an excellent spot for a swim. For a secluded sandy beach, take the tough but scenic 45-minute coastal hike from Mikro Seitani to Megalo Seitani, on the northern shores of Samos.
Get ready for Samos
Budget
Overall, prices on the island are moderate, making a budget trip to Samos very possible. Choose to eat at inexpensive restaurants, where you can get a great meal for as little as ten euros (€). If you need to catch a taxi, expect a short trip to cost you less than €7. Or hop on public transport for even less.
Day trips from Samos
The Turkish coast is only about an hour away by ferry. Visit the town of Kusadasi and the ancient ruins of Ephesus on a day trip. Or explore the nearby Aegean islands. Chios boasts charming medieval villages, full of stone buildings and cobbled streets. And Patmos claims to be where Saint John the Apostle wrote the Book of Revelation.
Getting around Samos
With easy access to taxis and public buses, getting around Samos is a breeze. Buses are infrequent in remote areas, so consider hiring a car for flexibility. Water taxis are another option, especially for reaching hidden beaches and coastal villages. If you plan to stick to the capital, you’ll be able to walk to most attractions.
